Intentional Work, LLC

"Two months after the training, 21 percent of those in the group who did not use mental imagery found new jobs. But 66 percent of those who used this technique were employed within two months." -Visualizing Interview Success

More and more we are hearing about how visualization can make or break success, whether you are an Olympic athlete or job candidate preparing for an interview, visualizing can be what makes the outcome sunny-side up!

I’m a big fan of visualizing (similar to day-dreaming, but with far more intention and purpose) and would like to encourage anyone going on interviews to give it a try. It may take some practice, but it’s worth it, if in the end you are more confident, self-assured and mentally prepared to give it your best. That’s what visualizing can help you do – be your best.

For an easy visualization technique, check out this great article about visualizing interview success. Its straight forward and easy to follow and specifically targets how and what to visualize for a great interview.  

Another great technique to a more relaxed (and hopefully successful) interview is doing some thought stopping. We all battle with our inner critic, negative thoughts from our ego to keep us safe in the known (even if it’s not a happy place). The inner critic arrives when we are stressed, tired, hungry and lonely. My best advice: eat a good breakfast, get plenty of rest, practice interviewing with a friend and practice telling your negative thoughts ‘Stop’. Block the thoughts from becoming bigger and replace them with a positive fact.

I also highly recommend a version of the ‘pink bubble technique', which is a bit friendlier and appeals to folks who are already practiced at visualizing and meditiation. It's easy to learn (both for meditation and relaxation).

My version: when a negative thought or judgment comes into your head you surround it with a big pink bubble and blow it away. Imagine the negative thing encased in a soft pink billowy bubble, floating away into a clear blue sky, taking away the negative thought and emotion that goes with it. You can even make the motion with your hands of capturing the thought in the bubble and blowing it away like a real bubble. It sounds silly and fun and it is, and laughter is a great stress reliever.

A great interview comes with being prepared, confident, relaxed and focused on what you want. You’ll be that much closer to your intention – getting the job.

Do you have other techniques you use to relax or pump you up before meeting for an interview? What do you visualize for a successful interview?